Unforeseen and certainly unintended, the Tobago Festivals Commission Limited regrets to confirm that renowned reggae artiste, Mark Myrie, best known as Buju Banton, has been forced to postpone his performance in Tobago this Easter.
The artiste, in a dialogue with organisers of the Rhythm and Soul Festival, being hosted this Easter weekend, humbly requested compassion and understanding as a close member of his team confronts a very dire health matter- someone he acknowledges as ‘family.’ “Trust and believe that your love and support, your admiration, has been overwhelming over the years and we plan to make it up to you. Nothing is more important and nothing is more vital than health, so right now I am in the throws fighting for a good friend’s life,” said the artiste in a video statement. He assured that fans in Trinidad and Tobago will see him soon.
Arrangements for a rescheduled concert featuring the artiste, in Tobago, are forthcoming.
Buju Banton.
MARLEY MAGIC ON THE WAY.
In the meantime, organizers, cognizant of the importance of ensuring patrons’ complete satisfaction this Easter holiday weekend, have moved swiftly to guarantee a memorable show, regardless. “We are happy to announce that Stephen Marley, the son of the legend himself, Bob Marley, will be blessing us with his presence on the island, on April 20th,” said Kern Cowan – CEO of the Tobago Festivals Commission.
Stephen Marley. Photo : Alive Coverage for Live Nation
“When presented with Buju’s situation, there was no way we could not show compassion. Health and family are priority to us all. How could we ignore what Buju is facing at this time? We understand, so we have moved to ensure that the Tobago Rhythm and Soul Festival delivers the same level of positive energy, upliftment, affirmative musical expression and love. This will ultimately be a show nobody should miss,” said Mr. Cowan.
From April 17th to April 20th, the island of Tobago comes alive with the sounds of Gospel, Jazz, Reggae and Soca music. Nigerian gospel singer, Sinach, headlines ‘Melodies from Heaven’ on Holy Thursday and on Saturday, April 19th, international artistes, Jon Secada and Brian McKnight will be joined by Trinidad and Tobago Soca star, Mical Teja, delivering the perfect balance of music to serenade the masses at Buccoo Seafood Jazz.
Fusion closes off the long holiday weekend on Sunday, April 20th at the Dwight Yorke Stadium with Gramps Morgan, Wayne Wonder, Kes The Band, Singing Melody and now, the incomparable, Stephen Marley – a powerful voice in the Marley dynasty.
“We understand that some patrons would be disappointed that Buju Banton is unable to be with us at this time. For those desirous of refunds, the option is available. Tickets may be returned to outlets where purchased for a full refund. We however anticipate that this will still be a weekend of performances not to be missed, and will provide memories for the masses for a lifetime.’ said Cowan.
Dancehall artiste Popcorn has released an album rooted in gratitude and grounded in real-life experiences, he says. The artiste says, “Nothing Without God ” showcases his evolution.
Originally completed and scheduled for release prior to the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, the artiste’s latest catalogue of work is created with a message of strength, faith, and restoration and now stands as a powerful reflection of resilience, one that may serve as a source of hope and inspiration for many in current times.
More than a collection of songs, ‘Nothing Without God’ hears Popcaan blend gratitude, reflection, and perseverance, offering both comfort and motivation to his fans around the world.
“This project comes from a real place — from loss, from learning, and from faith,” said Popcaan. “We’ve all been through so much, and I just want people to remember that no matter how rough it gets, God never leave us. He carry we through the storm every time.”
The 14-track album features collaborations that highlight unity, purpose, and inner peace. Lead singles “Immortal Life” and “Nothing Without God” set the tone celebrating divine protection and the power of gratitude, while songs like “Family First” (featuring Natebadz) and “Kick It Wid
A Timely Soundtrack for Healing and Hope
As the island of Jamaica rebuilds and communities unite to recover from the storm, Popcaan’s ‘Nothing Without God’ serves as a soundtrack for healing. It’s a testament to resilience and a reminder that with every test comes testimony, and through every storm comes new growth.
“It’s not just about me or music,” Popcaan explained. “It’s about the people, the country, and remembering that we’re still blessed. Jamaica strong, and God still deh yah.”
Trinidad and Tobago’s Greatest Show on Earth has, for years, been a tourist attraction. With 100 days to go before the two-day street parade in Port-of-Spain, the excitement is steadily building and with momentum, the National Carnival Commission is moving full speed ahead.
Traditional carnival characters will be out in full costume on Friday at the Brian Lara Promenade.
Carnival 2026 will be publicly launched at the Brian Lara Promenade on Friday, November 7th. The NCC, in a media release said the spectacle will begin at 9am and go through the day, transforming the city’s hub into an active thoroughfare featuring all things T&T carnival. Th event will feature traditional Carnival characters, informative workshops and exhibitions, a mini concert from reigning Panorama champions, Republic Bank Exodus Steel Orchestra, and much more. “In bringing Carnival to the city, we’re hoping to bring people to the city to come out and show their support for the culture, for the NCC, the Special Interest Groups, the vendors and small business community, and the Regional Carnivals because we’re all part of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival,” said NCC Chairman, Peter Kanhai.
TEACHING THE YOUTH ABOUT CARNIVAL
This year, the NCC will introduce something they’re calling, “The Children’s Zone,” where school children and their parents and guardians will be able to experience a distinct youth-oriented energy to Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival. The zone will feature cultural exhibitions, displays, giveaways and more, even offering youths the opportunity to pen a ‘Love Letter to Carnival.’ “School children would be invited to write what it is they love about Trinidad and Tobago Carnival for a mural that will be displayed at the Grand Stand, Queen’s Park Savannah for Carnival next year,” the press release explained.
At 4pm, a concert will engage the public with performances by Swappi, Terri Lyons, Orlando Octave, Ravi B, Drupatee, Shal Marshall, Erphaan Alves and other featured cultural acts.
Back in August, at the corporate launch of Carnival, Minister of Culture, the Arts and Community Development, Michelle Benjamin, shared her ministry’s vision for carnival.
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A CLASS
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